On July 2013, New Zealand Mint has released a Lawrence of Arabia 1 oz Silver Proof Coin for coin collector. Known as T. E. Lawrence or Thomas Edward Lawrence (16th August 1888 – 19th May 1935), the coin minted to commemorate 125th anniversary of his birth.
Sadly, this is the first time New Zealand Mint released a less beautiful & less attractive silver proof coins design. I don't know why but I know they're many New Zealand Mint fan out there looking for coins with interesting packaging like Muhamamad Ali silver proof coin.
The coin reverse show Lawrence captured in the traditional Middle Eastern garb which made him a global media phenomenon of his day. One side of his headdress represents a map of the Middle East where he spent so much of his life.
The folds in the cloth of the other side represent the endless rolling sand dunes of the desert which Lawrence called home and the fluidity of his own life.
A Sopwith Camel biplane is set against this Arabian background, symbolizing Lawrence’s great love of flying and the many years he served in the RAF. It was here where he was instrumental in bringing about key reforms such as the abolition of the death penalty for cowardice in battle, and the use of Pith helmets being abandoned by the air force in India. Lawrence’s passion for motorcycles is shown in a finely engraved Brough Superior, a make of motorcycle which he loved, and on which he ultimately would have a tragic accident upon.
The fragmented, grid like element of this design, symbolizes the complex, secretive and multi sided nature of Lawrence’s life. He was a celebrity of his day, a military leader, an explorer, an author, a pilot, a guerrilla and a pioneer to name but a few. These grids also represent the pioneering work Lawrence made in mapping large areas of the Middle East through the use of aerial photography.
Technical Specifications:
Metal: 999 Fine Silver
Finish: Proof
Diameter: 40.0mm
Edge: Milled
Denomination: $2
Year of Issue: 2013
Mintage: 1,888
Weight: 1 Troy oz
The T.E. Lawrence 1 oz 999 Pure Silver Coin is presented in an attractive dark wooden case with removable coin-holder insert. The insert can be positioned so the coin is displayed upright. The outer boxing displays a historical photographic image of T.E. Lawrence.
